Have Them at Hello - Conversation Starter Tips

"I like men with quick wit, good conversation and a great sense of humour. I love banter. I want a man to like me for me - I want him to be authentic." -- Emma Watson 

You spot someone across the room, your eyes lock, you feel a little giddy and there's a sense of excitement in the air. What do you do?

Walking up to a total stranger and starting a conversation can be terrifying. Learning to overcome your fears and approaching the person who caught your eye is worth the risk. Remember, more often than not, they have the same fears as you. Someone has to break the ice.  Why can't it be you?

Here are a few ways to initiate banter with someone of interest without running the risk of blatant rejection:

1) Incorporate elements from your surroundings
Observe what is going on around you as a launching point. Ask the person what inspired them to take the class or if the #20 is always this crowded at this time of night.

2) Pay them a compliment
"I love your tie/jacket/ring" and then tell them why you like it: "It reminds me of . . . "  The best way to get them involved, ask a follow up question: "Is purple your favorite color?"

3) Ask questions that interest you. 
Ask the person of interest a question that popped into your head or that you are wondering about that goes beyond the time. Trust your gut, go with your instincts and be authentic.

When there is someone you really want to talk to but are at a loss for words, just remember that you can never go wrong asking someone a question or paying someone a compliment. When you start a conversation with someone, your primary goal should be to assess how the person interacts with you and whether you should continue to engage them in conversation or move on to someone else more likely to engage you in conversation.

No matter how much you stammer or stumble at the beginning, you will do 100% better than those who do nothing at all.

What are some other ways you've tried to start a conversation with someone? Send us a message on Facebook to share your story or ask us your dating questions.